DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically confirmed epithelial carcinoma arising in the ovary, fallopian tube, or peritoneum, in second or greater remission Failed initial therapy with persistent or recurrent disease Cytoreductive surgery AND At least 1 platinum-based chemotherapy regimen No evidence of disease within 4 months of salvage chemotherapy CA-125 less than 35 U Negative physical exam No abdominal or pelvic disease by CT